Hollywood is no stranger to polarizing figures, but few have sparked as much debate as Rachel Zegler. The young actress, once hailed as a breakout talent in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, has faced a whirlwind of scrutiny following the lackluster performance of Disney’s Snow White live-action remake. Yet, in a twist that has fans and critics buzzing, a major Hollywood studio has tapped Zegler for a new high-profile project, prompting cries of “failing upward” and renewed chatter about her status as a “rising star.” Is Zegler’s career defying gravity, or is this another misstep in an industry grappling with its own identity? The internet is ablaze with opinions, and the story behind her latest gig is anything but ordinary.

The “Failing Upward” Phenomenon

The phrase “failing upward” has become a charged term in Hollywood, often used to describe individuals who secure plum opportunities despite professional setbacks. For Zegler, the narrative took root after Snow White—where she starred as the titular princess—underperformed at the box office in 2024. The film, burdened by production controversies and polarized audience reactions, failed to recapture the magic of Disney’s animated classic. Zegler’s outspoken comments during the promotional cycle, including critiques of the original fairy tale’s dated elements, drew backlash from some fans who felt she disrespected the source material. Social media platforms like X erupted with memes and hot takes, with detractors arguing that her casting was a miscalculation and her performance lacked the charm needed to carry a blockbuster.

Yet, despite the Snow White debacle, Zegler’s career appears far from stalled. Reports indicate that a prominent studio—rumored to be behind a musical or drama project—has cast her in a leading role, signaling confidence in her star power. The news has reignited debates about Hollywood’s casting decisions and whether Zegler is being rewarded for potential rather than proven success. On X, posts range from enthusiastic support (“She’s a talent who deserves this!”) to skepticism (“How does she keep landing roles after Snow White?”). The “failing upward” label, while catchy, oversimplifies a complex story—one that involves talent, timing, and an industry in flux.

Zegler’s Journey: From Breakout to Backlash

To understand Zegler’s trajectory, it’s worth revisiting her rapid rise. Born in New Jersey to Colombian and Polish parents, Zegler was a virtual unknown when she landed the role of Maria in West Side Story at age 17. Her performance earned critical acclaim, a Golden Globe, and comparisons to legends like Natalie Wood. Spielberg praised her natural charisma and vocal prowess, positioning her as a star to watch. Roles in Shazam! Fury of the Gods and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes followed, showcasing her versatility in action and dystopian drama. By 2023, Zegler seemed poised to dominate Hollywood’s next generation.

However, Snow White marked a turning point. The film’s troubled production, which included reshoots and reported tensions between Zegler and co-star Gal Gadot (who played the Evil Queen), fueled negative buzz. Zegler’s public persona—vocal, unapologetic, and socially conscious—won her a dedicated fanbase but also alienated viewers who perceived her as dismissive of Disney’s legacy. The film’s box-office disappointment, grossing far less than expected, led to whispers that Zegler’s star had dimmed. Some speculated that studios might hesitate to cast her in major projects, fearing similar backlash.

The announcement of her new role has flipped that narrative on its head. While details about the project remain scarce, industry insiders suggest it could be a musical, leveraging Zegler’s acclaimed singing ability, or a prestige drama aimed at awards season. The studio’s decision to hire her suggests they see her not as a liability but as a talent worth betting on—a move that has sparked curiosity about what’s driving her resilience.

Hollywood’s Risky Bet

Why would a studio take a chance on Zegler after Snow White’s misfire? The answer lies in a combination of her undeniable talent and Hollywood’s evolving priorities. Zegler’s vocal range and emotional depth, evident in her stage work (including a 2024 London production of Evita), make her a rare commodity in an industry hungry for triple-threat performers. Her youth—she’s only 24 in 2025—also aligns with studios’ desire to cultivate stars who can anchor franchises or awards contenders for decades. Unlike established A-listers, Zegler offers a fresh face with room to grow, appealing to younger audiences who value authenticity and diversity.

Moreover, Hollywood is navigating a post-pandemic landscape where traditional formulas no longer guarantee success. Superhero fatigue, as seen in underperforming Marvel films like Thunderbolts, has pushed studios to diversify their slates with original stories and bold casting choices. Zegler, with her multicultural background and passionate online presence, embodies the kind of star who can connect with Gen Z and Millennial viewers. Her ability to generate buzz—positive or negative—ensures attention, a valuable currency in an era of fractured audiences.

The “failing upward” critique also ignores the reality of Hollywood’s meritocracy, which is less about flawless track records and more about relationships and potential. Directors like Spielberg and Hunger Games producer Nina Jacobson have publicly championed Zegler, suggesting she has allies in high places. Her new project could be a passion project for a filmmaker who sees her as the perfect fit, regardless of past controversies. In an industry where second chances are common (consider Robert Downey Jr.’s comeback after personal struggles), Zegler’s trajectory is less an anomaly than a reflection of Hollywood’s willingness to gamble on talent.

The Public’s Polarized Reaction

The news of Zegler’s casting has divided fans and observers, mirroring broader cultural debates about accountability and opportunity. Supporters argue that she’s a victim of unfair scrutiny, targeted for her outspokenness and the systemic challenges of starring in a Disney remake. Snow White’s failure, they contend, was a collective misstep—hampered by a bloated budget, creative indecision, and a polarized audience—not Zegler’s fault alone. Her defenders on X highlight her work ethic, citing her packed schedule and commitment to projects like Evita as evidence of her staying power. “She’s young, talented, and learning—give her a break,” one post reads.

Critics, however, see her new role as emblematic of Hollywood’s disconnect from audiences. The “failing upward” narrative resonates with those who feel the industry rewards controversy over competence. Some point to Zegler’s Snow White press tour, where her comments about modernizing the story sparked backlash, as a self-inflicted wound. Others question whether her casting reflects genuine merit or a studio’s attempt to signal progressive values. The debate has taken on a life of its own online, with hashtags like #RachelZegler and #HollywoodHypocrisy trending sporadically.

This polarization reflects a deeper tension in entertainment: the clash between tradition and reinvention. Zegler, as a young woman of color unafraid to speak her mind, embodies a shift toward inclusivity that excites some and unsettles others. Her new role, whether a hit or a miss, will likely amplify these discussions, cementing her as a lightning rod for Hollywood’s cultural moment.

What’s Next for Zegler?

The stakes are high for Zegler’s upcoming project. A successful performance could silence doubters and solidify her as a leading lady, much like Emma Watson’s transition from Harry Potter to Beauty and the Beast. A musical role, in particular, would play to her strengths, potentially earning her awards buzz and a new fanbase. Conversely, another high-profile flop could reinforce the “failing upward” narrative, making it harder for her to shake off controversy.

Zegler’s ability to navigate this moment will depend on her performance and her public persona. Her Evita run in London, which garnered positive reviews, suggests she’s honing her craft away from Hollywood’s spotlight. Her social media presence, while occasionally divisive, keeps her connected to fans who admire her candor. If she can channel the passion that made her a standout in West Side Story into her next role, she may yet prove her critics wrong.

Why It Matters

Rachel Zegler’s latest casting isn’t just about one actress—it’s a microcosm of Hollywood’s current crossroads. As studios grapple with audience expectations, cultural shifts, and the pressure to innovate, figures like Zegler become test cases for what the industry values. Is she a rising star destined for greatness, or a beneficiary of a system that overlooks failure? The answer lies somewhere in the messy intersection of talent, opportunity, and public perception.

For now, Zegler’s new role has sparked a conversation that shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re rooting for her comeback or questioning her ascent, one thing is clear: she’s a name you can’t ignore. As her next project takes shape, all eyes will be on whether she can soar above the controversy and claim her place among Hollywood’s elite.